It will be easier than you expect. There is soreness and maybe low fever at first. Just take it easy for a week or so and no quick movements of the left arm. After a bit, you will forget it is there.

I have a defribillator since 2002. I often forget that I have it inside me!

I have both a pacemaker and difibulator. They were put in as a precaution. My cardiologist had it put in because my EF was very low at that time and he was amazed I wasn't in Afib by then. It has been replaced once. I never had either go off. I am still sore at the site where it was placed. I can't lay on that side and I'm still sensitive to being touched there. I've learned to live with it. My first one was put in back in 2007.

I have paroxysmal AFIB but do not have a pacemaker. Sorry I can't provide you with any information on that. I do have friends that have a pacemaker and they stated the procedure wasn't bad at all and that they feel much better with it. Hope the best for you.

Sharon, I was terrified, too, but you will be fine. You will be awake during the procedure and will probably be released that same day.. There will be some pain when you get home but can be relieved by just an ice pack and Tylenol. It will take a little while to get used to. They set mine at 70 originally, but that was too high for me. When I went back for my followup they turned it down to 63. So it's much better. Everyone is different. I found it difficult to find a comfortable position for sleeping, but that too, you will get used to. You will feel so much better. I'll be keeping you in my prayers. Best of luck and you'll be surprised how your fear was all for nothing. Sending heartfelt hugs. 💞